FAQ Exchange and Direct-Enroll

View side-by-side comparison to see differences between Exchange and Mason-led.

Studying at a partner school is primarily a long-term commitment. You study abroad for one semester (fall or spring) or one year (academic year or calendar year). However, some international summer schools available.

Host institution faculty.

Students from host institution and international students.

That's your choice. With some exceptions, you have access to the entire course catalog of the host institution. Courses and credits transfer back to Mason.

Yes. You can view courses that have been transferred as Mason credit in the Transfer Credit Database (CERS). CERS stands for "Course Evaluation and Registration System" but the database is oftentimes referred to as Transfer Credit Database, Course Database, or simply CERS. You can also request new courses equivalencies if needed.

No. Your grades abroad are not applied to your Mason GPA. However, these classes are NOT pass/fail so a record of your grade does exist.

Why is this important?

For example, if you apply to a graduate program or competitive job and a transcript is requested, you will need to include a transcript from your host school in addition to your Mason transcript.

Some programs have on campus housing options, and all will at least have suggested housing or apartment options close to campus. It is important for students to note that they are responsible for their own housing.

Each program comes with a separate web brochure page which provides more specific details on housing.

Exchange: you pay Mason tuition rates
Direct-Enroll: you pay separate program fee that includes tuition
Housing is usually separate.

Tuition and program fees are paid through Student Accounts
Housing is usually separate and paid directly to the university partner or third-party housing provider.

YES. If you intend to use financial aid, you will need to meet with a Financial Aid Counselor.